"It's a very simple game. Sometimes you win, sometimes you lose. Sometimes it rains."
(Bull Durham)

Saturday, April 4, 2015

Bucs Lose Last Tuneup; Morton Struggles Badly, Heads to DL.

Ugh - the first seven batters reached against Charlie Morton, and only a DP saved him from utter ruin; he still gave up a four spot with three walks and two hit batters (we won't mention the wild pitch). he gave up a couple more, adding two more walks and another wild pitch, lasting just 1-2/3 IP. It was enough to give the Phils a 6-4 sweep and to get Charlie placed on the DL (hip). He'll go to extended spring training; Morton probably pushed his recovery a little harder than wise and needs to get his post-surgery technique in order.

Vance Worley - back in the rotation (photo: Dave Arrigo/Pirates)

That move drops some dominoes in place. Vance Worley will go to the rotation, and Stolmy Pimentel somehow has escaped the Turk, but it appears for just a brief time. Clint Hurdle told the media gang that Andrew Lambo, Radhames Liz, Jared Hughes and Arquimedes Caminero are pretty much in, so that leaves one roster spot open. Might Big John Holdzkom get a reprieve? Will the Bucs carry gloveman Pedro Florimon and go with a short pen? Do the Bucs have a deal in the works? At any rate, Stolmy looks like the odd man out, although it's possible the FO still have him in that final mix. Both he and Florimon are out of options, so they'd have to clear waivers to remain with the organization.

Today's only official move was placing Morton on the DL and slotting Vanimal for Saturday's start. The roster is complete except for that last bullpen/bench position. The 25-man has to be set by 3PM tomorrow.

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